Sunday, August 30, 2009

Look of the week: Angelina Jolie



Angelina Jolie went shopping with her family this past week in Brignoles, France. She wore a cute maxi strapless dress with ruffle layering. Angelina has such an effortlessly chic fashion sense. She always looks great- but like she doesn't try to hard! The Culturistas love it. She pairs her dress with a large white bag and sunglasses- with a pair of flat sandals. Very nice vacation wear!

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Saturday, August 29, 2009

Recipe of the week: Turkey and Artichoke Stuffed Shells

Try this delicious pasta recipe from Giada De Laurentiis at the Food Network! It's really easy and will take around an hour to prep/cook. It's also very satisfying- make a little side salad and you have a perfect dinner! This recipe feeds four (with leftovers!) When I made the arrabbiata sauce- I nixed the pancetta and it was still tasty FYI :)

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells (recommended: Barilla)
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 large yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus 1/2 teaspoon
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus 1/4 teaspoon
  • 1 (8 to 10-ounce) package frozen artichokes, thawed and coarsely chopped
  • 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella (about 5 ounces)
Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and partially cook until tender but still very firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain pasta.

Meanwhile, in a large heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and the garlic and cook until the onions are soft and starting to brown, about 3 minutes. Add the ground turkey, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is slightly golden and cooked through. Add the artichoke hearts and stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool.

In a large bowl combine the cooled turkey mixture with the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, basil, parsley, and the remaining salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

To stuff the shells, cover the bottom of a 9 by 13 by 2-inch baking dish with 1 cup of Arrabbiata sauce. Take a shell in the palm of your hand and stuff it with a large spoonful of turkey mixture, about 2 tablespoons. Place the stuffed shell in the baking dish. Continue filling the shells until the baking dish is full, about 24 shells. Drizzle the remaining Arrabbiata Sauce over the shells, top with the grated mozzarella. If freezing, cover tightly with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 1 day and up to 1 month.

To bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bake until the shells are warmed through and the cheese is beginning to brown, about 60 minutes (20 minutes if shells are unfrozen.)

Arrabbiata Sauce:

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

6 ounces sliced pancetta, coarsely chopped

2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

2 garlic cloves, minced

5 cups jarred or fresh marinara sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the pancetta and saute until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until tender, about 1 minute. Add the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let cool until ready to use.

Yield: approximately 6 cups

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Friday, August 28, 2009

Robyn Rhodes jewelry give-away!!


Our Robyn Rhodes giveaway is now over! Congratulations to the winner, #6 Olivia John!!

Go check out Robyn's website:
RobynRhodes.com and receive 20% off when you type in the code "CULTURISTAS"

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Lust of the Week: Alexander McQueen Clutches



The Culturistas LUST of the week! Alexander McQueen has recently come out with these gorgeous, edgy clutches with built in gloves/rings. Sure makes carrying a clutch much more comfortable AND way cooler.

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Fashion Links a la Mode: August 27th


  • 39th and Broadway: Are You a Fashion Sellout?
  • Brick My Lane: Interview with Fee Doran, aka Mrs Jones – the woman behind Oxfam DIY and that famous white catsuit.
  • Cake not Coke: Vanity Fair Setpember ‘09 Toujours Couture - A Stitch in Time.
  • Chicago Style: Interview with Monica Dimperio, of the Chicago street style blog The MidWasteland
  • Clutch 22: Exclusive scoop on Seattle indie greentrepreneurs – Sara Seumae of SPUN Clothing collaborates with Tara Smith of Revival Ink (plus a contest)
  • Denim Debutante: The reasons you should love Rich & Skinny denim, along with tips for the three best cuts and how to wear them
  • Dramatis Personae: Unveiling the feminine fashion stylings of independent designer Claire la Faye…
  • Dream Sequins: Shoptalk with Cherie of online vintage marketplace Shrimpton Couture, which collaborates with emerging designers
  • Fashion Pulse: Check out the new trend in leggings, by way of geometric prints and loads of grey!
  • Independent Fashion Bloggers : Dress UP for NYFW
  • Prom Mafia: Raid your boyfriend’s closet: How to turn his t-shirts into cute girly tunics
  • Retro Chick: What happens at a Burlesque Lesson?
  • Saved for Best: Girls on Film – A celebration and run down of the best-dressed films
  • Shop Fair: Top 5 obstacles fair trade and “green” fashion labels have to overcome to be more successful
  • Style on the Street: Three photoshoots inspiring trends for the next season
  • Style Symmetry: The Symmetry Seven with Rhiannon of Liebemarlene Vintage
  • Sweet Fuzz: Rustic Elegance - independent fashion designer Dace’s beautiful Fall line
  • The Coveted: Charlotte Russe Review – Mixing in Fast Fashion
  • The Demoiselles: Shopping for your body type is hard enough without a recession; shopping on the cheap is even harder

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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Part 2 Boot Trends for Fall 2009: Cut-Out Boots



Another boot trend for this Fall season are the cut-out boots! Check out these styles from Forever 21, Camilla Skovgaard, Michael Kors and Halston- in all different price ranges.

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Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Trend Watch: Peep Toe Boots




Peep-toe boots
are popping up everywhere this season. And the great part is- you can find a pair in any price range! We can't wait to rock a pair this season!! Don't be afraid to wear opaque hose with peep-toe boots, when the weather starts to drop. Just stay away from the kind that has toe reinforcements.

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Monday, August 24, 2009

Update Your Closet for Midseason!



Dressing for the end of summer and the beginning of Fall can be tricky! Here are some style tips to help you through! With these tips you can reuse what's already in your closet with some styling modifications to keep you on trend for PreFall 2009! Check out the Culturista style tips below!



Wear any of your miniskirts with a boyfriend blazer and peep-toe boots, both important on-trend pieces for the upcoming season! Accessorize with some great statement jewelry such as a chain necklace or cocktail ring.



Wearing a trench coat is a great way to take you from Summer to Pre-fall. Pair a light trench with any pair of shorts and sling back sandals for an in-between season look. Don't forget to accessorize with this seasons hottest necklace trend: the chain necklace!




Like a trench coat, a leather jacket will take you from Summer to the Fall season smoothly. It looks great paired with a floral print or any other summer dress. A long shoulder strap bag and cut out heels are hot trends for this fall!

Check out more Fall 2009 Trends here!

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Sunday, August 23, 2009

Look of the week: Diane Kruger



Diane Kruger is once again our look of the week for her Miu Miu ensemble at the Inglorious Bastards premiere and after party on Monday (Aug 17) in NYC. Her sequined grey minidress, silver jewelry and black ankle strap sandals are a perfect match with her sexy undone hair and red lips. The Culturistas love Diane's look and her style!

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Saturday, August 22, 2009

Christopher Kane's Collection for Topshop



British designer Christopher Kane launches a new Fall line for Topshop NEXT month! He has designed dresses, separates, shoes and even handbags for the collection. And the prices range from 60 to 310 dollars. Although this does sound pricey - it's much more affordable than Kane's High end line (plus hopefully this means they DON'T skimp on quality like other store's designer lines *achem Target*)

We love the studded pieces and all the pretty detailing. The line looks like a great mix of feminine and rocker chic. LOVE those Lady Gaga-esq tap pants seen above!

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Friday, August 21, 2009

Restaurant Profile: Spitz


Spitz is a quasi-fast food restaurant with two locations in LA, Eagle Rock and Little Tokyo. They serve "Doner Kebob" which is street food commonly found in Europe, originating in Turkey. Their sandwiches are made up of either Chicken, a combo of Lamb and Beef or Falafel. The meats are slow roasted and then shaved off to put into wraps or sandwiches. The restaurant has been attracting hungry people since 2005 when owners Bryce Rademan and Robert Wicklund opened their first location in Eagle Rock.


For a modest 9-10 dollars, you get a Doner Kebob sandwich, a drink and one of their yummy sides. The sweet potato fries and the pita strips are both GREAT choices! They also have salad options as well as a Doner Plate option. And while you technically get your food quickly and it is inexpensive- the food at Spitz is great quality- so it is far from "fast food."

They have happy hour specials from 3pm-7pm everyday of the week! $4 Sangria, $1 Pita Strips with Hummus $3 draft beer! They also have a student discount- so bring your ids!

Spitz in Eagle Rock
(323) 982-8869
2506 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Spitz in Little Tokyo
(323) 613-0101
371 E. 2nd St
Los Angeles, CA 90012

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Linkage

[Rachel Roy collection- via The Budget Babe]

Rachel Roy's Collection for Macys- The Budget Babe
Mad Men Costume Designer, Janie Bryant undresses Season 3- SF Gate
Boho Ethnic style inspiration- Style Copycat
August Style Tips - WWWD
Get Sienna Miller's Look -Frugal Fashionista
Robyn Rhodes Jewelery Giveaway

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Thursday, August 20, 2009

Chic and Cheap Finds: Sexy Evening Sandals



These great sandals are so affordable when you shop at Flyjane.net. Both pairs are under 55 dollars but look much more expensive than they are!

Metallic Strappy Heels: FlyJane.net $49.90
Black Strappy Heels: FlyJane.net $54.90

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Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Robyn Rhodes jewelry give-away!!

Robyn Rhodes, the very talented jewelry designer, is hosting our first ever give-away on the Culturistas!! Check out the gorgeous Staci earrings above-- they are a favorite of Jessica Alba's. One lucky winner will win this pair (which retail for $118.00)!

To enter the contest: please leave a comment on this post telling us your favorite Culturista topic: Fashion, Food, New York Events, or LA Events!

Make sure to use a valid email address and include theculturistas@gmail.com in your address book so we can contact you if you're the winner. Comments must be posted by 5 pm PST on Friday August 28th to be eligible to win. The winner will be announced on August 29th. One lucky winner will be chosen at random. Open to U.S. residents only. Good luck!!

PLEASE NOTE THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED: The Winner is comment #6 Olivia John, congrats Olivia!!


[The Kim Ring] [The Beverly Necklace]

Robyn's jewelry can be seen in People Magazine and on tons of celebrities such as Jessica Alba and Scarlett Johanson. Her pieces have a gorgeous vintage feel for an affordable price!

Shop at Robyn Rhodes now: RobynRhodes.com You will get 20% off by typing in the coupon code "CULTURISTAS" at checkout!

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Stylist Inspiration: Summer 2009



We love the floral and stripe combo here. Combined with the nude and turquoise combo- it makes a great summer and pre fall look! Not to mention each of these items are under 65 dollars!

Top: Top Shop $35
Skirt: Top Shop $65
Clutch: Modcloth $47.99
Shoes: Wet Seal $12.99
Necklace:Forever 21 $8.80
Earrings: Forever 21 $4.50

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Tuesday, August 18, 2009

The Power Plate workout


Like many people, the Culturistas love a work out that's fast and not too challenging but produces amazing results. Of course we are usually skeptical when people advertise that but we LOVE to try them out! We very happily report that the Power Plate is a kick ass workout!! Although it wasn't too challenging it produced stronger muscles and INCREDIBLE soreness in just one session. Obviously- like any workout, results will only get better the more you do it and that's why we went to the Pop-up Studio at the Brentwood Town Center.

How it works: Utilizing scientifically-proven Advanced Vibration Technology (which was first created for Astronauts to fight atrophy BTW!) that naturally causes muscles to contract and relax multiple times per second while you exercise. The high speed workout recruits 95 percent of muscle fibers, dramatically more than the 30 to 50 percent engaged during moderate traditional training.

Benefits: Increased flexibility, strength, bone density and range of motion; decreased joint and muscle pain and improved blood circulation. Aesthetic benefits: enhanced skin tone through increased collagen production, cellulite reduction and greater production of regenerative hormones to help maintain a more youthful appearance. Pretty awesome.


So basically while you are doing all sorts of squats, lunges, crunches, and stretches - your body is working much harder than it would if you were standing on normal ground, but without feeling like you are working much harder. And unlike most workouts- this machine actually massages the muscles you worked out at the end! Apparently this helps with muscle soreness and even cellulite!

The Brentwood town center's Power Plate studio will be open through September. Classes are $75 for a private session and $30 for a group session. Call: 310 394 8600 for an appointment. You can also find the Power Plate machines in Equinox gyms!

The Brentwood Town Center
13050 San Vicente Boulevard
2nd Floor 90049

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Restaurant Profile: Ramos House Cafe



The Ramos House Cafe is in San Juan Capistrano. It's nestled in the heart of the Los Rios historical district (right at the train station). This makes for a perfect day trip from LA! The restaurant has been serving contemporary American cuisine in a building dating back to 1881. What is also interesting about the house- is it is run just like the old days (where the owner actually lives in the house, the herbs are grown on the property and the ice cream is even churned out back). The menu, American with a Southern influence, is very small, can change daily and is seasonal. But the food is excellent. Every dish is tasty, flavorful and interesting. Breakfast and Lunch are served all day during the week (Tues-Fri, closed Mon) and serve only a set course brunch on the weekends, which is 35 dollars a person.


[The menu booklet at the Ramos House Cafe]

It's a beautiful restaurant that really makes you feel part of American history when you visit. If you decide to take a day trip dont forget to check out what San Juan Capistrano has to offer:

The Mission- founded in 1776
Self-guided walking tour of the historical district

The Ramos House Cafe
ramoshouse.com
31752 Los Rios St
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 443-1342

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Monday, August 17, 2009

Look of the week: Selena Gomez



Selena Gomez is our 'Culturista look of the week' for her gorgeous Grecian inspired look at the Teen Choice awards last week. Her lilac dress is by Baby Phat (suprising, I know!!), shoes by Sergio Rossi and silver mesh hoop earrings by Melinda Maria. While most of the ladies at the Teen Choice awards showed up in teensy mini dresses- Selena really stood out with her elegant style! Culturista props girl.

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Friday, August 14, 2009

Old Navy $2 tanks

Starting tomorrow (Saturday, August 15th), Old Navy will be selling rib-knit tanks for 2 dollars a piece. They come in tons of colors and are great layering pieces. FYI- there is a limit 5 per customer.



Find a store near you at their website: Oldnavy.com

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Tuesday, August 11, 2009

SHWAYZE AT LE ROYALE



This Thursday August 13, 2009 at 10:00 PM, Shwayze will be performing at Le Royale a European style discotheque in NYC's West Village. Shwayze is known for hit songs such as "Buzzin" and "Get U Home." We will be performing with Cisco Adler, XXXChange of Spank Rock, and other surprise DJs. Aside from the fact that lineup will be bangin, this event is FREE with RSVP, just email "rsvp@gbh.tv" Kick on your dancing shoes and get ready to head bob for this night of live music and good rowdy fun!

Le Royale
28 7th Avenue South
New York, NY

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Sunday, August 9, 2009

Look of the week: Jessica Stroup



Jessica Stroup (90210) attended the CBS/CW/Showtime TCA party held at the Huntington Library on Monday, August 3rd. She looked so fashionable in her Stella McCartney Top, Catherine Malandrino shorts and Jimmy Choo clutch. We love the slightly highwaisted shorts and the sheer paneled top! Her simple but ever so chic look is the Culturistas pick for our "Look of the Week."

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Friday, August 7, 2009

Free Music at the Santa Monica Pier: Twilight Dance Series 2009


Every Thursday until September 3rd the Twilight dance series presents free music in the Pier parking lot. The concerts run from 7pm-10 pm. This coming Thursday, the 13th of August- two bands will be performing: Idan Raichel Project from Israel and Elijah Emanuel, bilingual reggae from Panama). See more info below:



Tips: Don't bring alcohol- it's not allowed.
Do bring your own beach/folding chairs for comfort!

Location: Santa Monica Pier 200 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, 90401

Phone: (310) 458-8900

Link: http://www.santamonicapier.org

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Thursday, August 6, 2009

The Culturistas Summer Playlist!



It's the height of summer and there is no shortage of great music playing. The Culturistas have decided to put together a playlist compiled of our favorite summer songs. Whether you are lounging around or ready to bump it, below are beats from a variety of genres and musical styles for your auditory enjoyment!

1. "Use Sombody"- Kings of Leon
2. "Electric Feel"- MGMT (Justice remix)
3. "I Gotta Feeling"- Black Eyed Peas
4. "Chillin"- Lady Gaga feat. Walle
5. "Good Girls Go Bad"- Cobra Starship
6. "Nighttiming"- Coconut Records
7. "Black and Gold"- Sam Sparro
8. "Pure Magic"- Girl Talk
9. "Tell Me Something Good"- Chaka Khan feat. Rufus
10. "Dance Wiv Me"- Calvin Harris feat. Dizzy Rascal
11. "Boys Boys Boys"- Lady Gaga
12. "Laughing With"- Regina Spektor
13. "Happy Up Here"- Royskopp
14. "Live your life"- T.I. and Rihanna
15. "Lisztomania"- Phoenix


Please don't hesitate to send us songs that you think should be included in the rotation.

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Get her Look for LESS: Rachel Bilson



Rachel Bilson dined at the West Hollywood restaurant, Cecconi’s, for lunch on Tuesday (August 4th). She dressed very casual, but stylish in a cotton t-shirt and cotton skirt by Brian Reyes (one of Rachel's go-to designers). See more of her great style here: Rachel Bilson: style profile

T-shirt: Forever 21
Skirt: Old Navy
Handbag Top Shop
Shoes: Steve Madden
Boyfriend Belt: Gap
Sunglasses: Forever 21

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Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Summer Reading 2009!

For an easy beach read try: "Confessions of a Shopaholic" by Sophie Kinsella. If you've already read the series try one of her other novels: "Can you Keep a Secret?" "Remember Me?" or "Twenties Girl."






Before you see the movie read: "Julie and Julia" by Julie Powell. "With the humor of Bridget Jones and the vitality of Augusten Burroughs, Julie Powell recounts how she conquered every recipe in Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking and saved her soul."











Enjoy a long plane ride by reading: "I am Charlotte Simmons" by Tom Wolfe. Wolfe at his best: describing the social satire of University life. Anyone who has been to college can relate and enjoy this story.














For a good laugh with crass and provocative humor read: "My Horizontal Life" by Chelsea Handler. Chelsea chronicles her diverse array of one-night stands in a collection of hilarious stories. Please note that there is a serious possibility that you will pee in your pants while reading her bouts of below the belt humor!













For an entertaining murder mystery try, "The Late, Lamented Molly Marx" by Sally Koslow. In a very original premise, Molly, the recently deceased gets to take glimpse at how life goes on after her death. With a mix of mystery, humor, and chutzpah you won't be able to stop turning the pages!












For a powerful and emotional read try: "Say You're One of Them" by Uwem Akpan. Akpan's five tales are told with the honest and uninhibited voices of the children involved. Each one takes place in a different country but the theme is universal: the biggest challenge faced by children in Africa is staying alive.














For a page turner try: "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Philippa Gregory. If you saw the movie--block it from your memory and try the novel!

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Tuesday, August 4, 2009

The Out-Net Pop up sale: TOMORROW!! 10am EST


Tomorrow, Wednesday August 5th- The OutNet is having a clearance pop-up sale! Starting at 10am EST you can buy designer duds for up to 85% off! Don't forget to sign up for an account before you shop. Check out the sale here: www.theoutnet.com

Jimmy Choo clutch
Original price $1,995, theOutnet.com clearance price $399.00


Citizens of Humanity jeans
Original price $215, theOutnet.com price $43.00


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4th Annual Television Costume Design exhibition at FIDM


[Costumes from The Tudors at the FIDM museum]


The annual TV costume design exhibit is going on right now at FIDM in downtown LA. The exhibit showcases the costumes from several hit shows like The Tudors, Gossip Girl, Dancing with the Stars, Project Runway and the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. Check out the free exhibit in downtown and have a picnic in the park (there's a Ralphs just up the street!). Or try one of the great bars in the area for happy hour: Downtown LA Bar scene

FIDM
919 South Grand Ave
LA, CA 90015
Wednesday, July 29th 2009- Sunday, September 6th 2009
Open Weds-Sun 10am-4pm

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Weekend Getaway: The Chelsea Hotel Atlantic City!


As a first timer in Atlantic City I was expecting a place that could have been cross-pollonated by The Real Housewives of New Jersey and the cast of the Real World: Las Vegas. As it turned out, while the boardwalk had quite the New Jersey flair, the Chelsea Hotel was a polar opposite experience.

Not only was it a pleasure to stay in this plush boutique hotel, but the nightlife was the greatest perk. We did not even have to leave the hotel to experience a night out in Atlantic City. The fifth floor of the Chelsea is home to the Cabana Club and C5 which have ongoing events and parties put on by the Sky Group. Whether it is daytime pool party with DJs spinning or various musical artists performing at night, the Culturistas think this is the best nightlife you will find in AC. If you are in the mood to wind down a bit later on in the evening, head next door to the Tropicana for some some gambling. But don't forget to keep your betting low, we are still in a recession after all!

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Monday, August 3, 2009

Central Park SummerStage: Bela Fleck & Toumani Diabate


Tonight August 3rd from 7:30-10:00 PM is a free African-themed event in Central Park affiliated with the SummerStage series. World renowned banjoist Bela Fleck will be putting on a performance with Malian musician Toumani Diabate. This musical event will be followed by a film screening of Fleck's journey to Africa where he discovers the musical origins of the banjo. This is a great opportunity to gather your friends with an assortment of picnic food and just hang out and enjoy an evening of African culture. Events are put on by the City Parks foundation and are all free with a suggested donation of $5. Tonight's performance will be on the great lawn.

For more information please check out the Summerstage website

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Top 10 Fashion Trends of the 2000's



I guest co-wrote an article on "Hamsterdam," a hilariously funny entertainment blog. The article profiles the top 10 most memorable trends of the 2000's. Check it out here: Top 10 Trends of the 2000's

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Sunday, August 2, 2009

Look of the week: Scarlett Johansson


Scarlett Johansson attended Dolce & Gabbana’s make-up launch held at Selfridges department store in London on Friday, July 31. She was looking very classy in her floral print cap sleeve blouse and orange linen skirt by Dolce & Gabbana. The Culturistas love her look!

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